Located along the coastline of Karnataka, Udupi beautifully combines spirituality, culture, and natural scenery. Whether you're in search of adventure, tranquillity, or culinary delight, this lively town has something unique for everyone. Things to do in Udupi range from visiting ancient temples to relaxing on tranquil beaches and enjoying delicious local dishes. Whether you're looking for adventure, tranquillity, or cultural experiences, Udupi is sure to captivate you and make you want to return. Are you ready to explore the allure of Udupi? Let’s discover the top experiences that will make your visit truly memorable!
Top 15 Things To Do In Udupi:
A quaint coastal town in Karnataka, Udupi boasts serene beaches, historical temples and a slew of cultural experiences. Udupi is famous for its own unique cuisine and spiritual heritage and does not hold back on fitting in as many activities as possible for all kinds of travellers. If you wish to make your visit to Udupi memorable then here is a curated list of things to do in Udupi.
1. Visit the Udupi Sri Krishna Matha
The Udupi Sri Krishna Matha is incomplete without the spiritual vibes which it offers. This temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna, is the epitome of Dravidian architecture and religious significance. Thousands of devotees come to see Lord Krishna's unique idol through a window with nine holes called Kanakana Kindi. Other shrines to Lord Subramanya and Hanuman are housed in the temple complex.
Location: Car Street, Udupi
Timing: 4:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
2. Explore the Malpe Beach
Visiting Malpe Beach is one of many things to do in Udupi. This fantastic beach is a great place for a laid-back day spent by the sea, with golden sands and clear waters. Water sports like jet skiing, parasailing, and a banana boat ride are available at Malpe Beach. Don’t forget the stunning sunset views and also the numerous cool local seafood stalls by the beach.
Location: Malpe, Udupi
Timing: Open 24 hours
Entry Fee: Free
3. Discover the St. Mary’s Island
St. Mary’s Island is a short boat ride from Malpe Beach and is famous for its interesting hexagonal basalt rock formations. This is the perfect island for exploring and relaxing for the day. St. But Mary’s Island is more than a geological wonder, it’s a serene place with its lush greenery and calm waters. Also, keep some snacks and drinks in mind since the island does not have many facilities.
Location: Off the coast of Malpe
Timing: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: Approx. ₹200 per person for the boat ride
4. Experience the Charm of Kaup Beach and Lighthouse
One more gem of Udupi is Kaup Beach with its amazing views and a historic lighthouse that dates all the way back to 1901. Panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and the surrounding landscape can be had by climbing up the lighthouse. It’s quieter on the beach itself which makes it perfect for a peaceful walk or a quiet picnic. As a photographer, the sunsets at Kaup Beach are also famous for being a treat!
Location: Kaup, Udupi
Timing: Lighthouse: 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM (closed on Sundays)
Entry Fee: ₹10 per person for the lighthouse
5. Delve into the History of the Museum of Anatomy and Pathology
The Museum of Anatomy and Pathology at Manipal is a place of interest to history and science lovers. It includes a large collection of anatomical and pathological specimens. This museum is a fascinating ride through human anatomy and medical history and is a unique educational experience in Udupi.
Location: Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Udupi
Timing: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Monday to Saturday)
Entry Fee: ₹50 per person
6. Relish Authentic Udupi Cuisine
There is no trip to Udupi without trying out its famous cuisine. Popular South Indian vegetarian fare like dosa, idli, sambar, rasam etc. is also born in Udupi. Its must-visit eateries include Mitra Samaj and Woodlands where you can enjoy a traditional Udupi thali. Udupi cuisine has unique flavours and spices something that is going to make your taste buds go crazy.
Location: Various eateries across Udupi
Timing: Varies by restaurant
Entry Fee: Depends on the meal
7. Explore the Magnificent Temple
One of the oldest temples in the region, the Anantheshwara Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is near the Udupi Sri Krishna Matha. It is both spiritual and architectural brilliance. If you are looking for peace and spiritual solace, then the temple’s serene ambience and intricate carvings are a must-visit. The annual Rathotsava (Chariot Festival) which is held here is an awesome spectacle drawing devotees from around the globe.
Location: Car Street, Udupi
Timing: 5:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
8. Wander Through the 
A visit to the Udupi Market is necessary, for a taste of local life. This market is full of goods, fresh produce, spices, traditional handicrafts and souvenirs. You can take a stroll through the market, talk with the local vendors and take some fresh fruits and snacks. It is a photographer’s delight given the colourful array of items on display.
Location: Near Udupi Sri Krishna Matha
Timing: 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
9. Experience the Yakshagana Performance
If you happen to visit Udupi, you ought to watch the traditional dance drama form Yakshagana. There are plenty of elaborate costumes and animated storytelling in the performances. Yakshagana's performance is by itself a rich cultural heritage of the region and an experience worth attending. These captivating narratives (properly based on mythological stories) capture the hallmarks of an audience spellbound.
Location: Various venues in Udupi
Timing: Evening performances (check local listings)
Entry Fee: Varies by venue
10. Trek to the Stunning Kudlu Theertha Falls
Trekking to Kudlu Theertha Falls is one of the most adventurous things to do in Udupi for nature lovers. This waterfall is a small gem hidden in the lush greenery of the Western Ghats. The trek to Kudlu Theertha Falls is a moderate one, wherein the trail has many beautiful forests and scenic trails. When you get to the falls it is worth the effort once you have seen the cascading water and the peaceful environment.
Location: Near Hebri, Udupi
Timing: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
11. Seek Serenity at the Maravanthe Beach
The attraction at Maravanthe Beach is a unique one as the highway runs parallel to the sea on one end and the Souparnika River on the other. It’s a serene getaway from the city noise. It’s a nice place to go for a peaceful walk along the shore enjoying some local snacks or just stopping to admire the natural beauty. It is also famous for photography lovers because of the beach nearby.
Location: Near NH66, Udupi
Timing: Open 24 hours
Entry Fee: Free
12. Embark on a Pilgrimage to the Anegudde Vinayaka Temple
One of the prominent temples in Udupi is the Anegudde Vinayaka Temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha. This temple is famous for being rich in divine ambience and for having historical significance, it attracts pilgrims every year. The temple is located in such a manner that it is sitting amidst a beautiful landscape, and the idol of Lord Ganesha is believed to be self-manifested. This is celebrated with great fervour and devotion during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival.
Location: Kumbashi, Udupi
Timing: 5:30 AM - 8:30 PM
Entry Fee: Free
13. Witness the Beauty of the Varanga Jain Temple
A Varanga Jain Temple is a beautiful old temple located in the middle of a tranquil, peaceful lake. This temple is a famous pilgrimage site for Jains, known for its serene setting and architectural splendour. The temple is at the end of a pebble beach, visitors can take a coracle ride to get there. The place is a must-visit with its tranquil surroundings and the temple’s historical sense.
Location: Varanga, Udupi
Timing: 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
14. Explore the Scenic Manipal End Point
A local and tourist favourite, Manipal End Point has wonderful views of the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea. A nice place for a leisurely walk or a quiet evening. The End Point is also a good spot for picnics and it’s less crowded especially if you are from the city. This is a great spot to shoot a sunset as the views are especially spectacular.
Location: Manipal, Udupi
Timing: Open 24 hours
Entry Fee: Free
15. Enjoy a Day at the Delta Beach
A hidden gem where the river meets the sea is Delta Beach, also known as Kodi Bengre Beach. For those wanting to sit back and relax, this lesser-known beach is perfect for you. Daytime on the beach is wonderfully relaxing; the soft sand and gentle waves are perfect. It is also a lovely experience, as you can also enjoy some local seafood delicacies from some shacks nearby.
Location: Kodi Bengre, Udupi
Timing: Open 24 hours
Entry Fee: Free
Conclusion
Udupi is a charming mix of history, culture, nature, and spirituality, making it a must-see destination for every type of traveller. Whether you're wandering through ancient temples, relaxing on beautiful beaches, or enjoying its renowned cuisine, there’s no shortage of things to do in Udupi. So without further delay, start planning your trip and make sure to include some of these places for an unforgettable experience.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What are the famous things to do in Udupi?
Udupi is renowned for its spiritual sites like the Udupi Sri Krishna Matha, tranquil beaches such as Malpe and Kaup, and mouthwatering South Indian dishes. Exploring these attractions is a must when visiting Udupi.
2. How to spend a day exploring the best things to do in Udupi?
Begin your day at the Udupi Sri Krishna Matha, then head to Malpe Beach, enjoy a boat ride to St. Mary’s Island, and wrap up your day by watching a stunning sunset at Kaup Beach. Be sure to indulge in authentic Udupi cuisine!
3. Which month is best for enjoying the things to do in Udupi?
The best time to visit Udupi is from October to February, as the weather is cool and pleasant, making it ideal for exploring temples, and beaches, and engaging in outdoor activities.
4. How many days are sufficient to explore all the things to do in Udupi?
A trip of 2-3 days is sufficient to enjoy the highlights of Udupi, including visits to historic temples, relaxing on its beautiful beaches, and immersing yourself in the local culture.
